Introduction:

When it comes to Southern comfort desserts, few things compare to the deep, buttery richness of a classic butterscotch pie—and who better to turn to than **Dolly Parton** herself for an authentic, soulful version?

This beloved pie recipe is a true taste of the South: a silky smooth custard made from brown sugar, butter, eggs, and a touch of cornstarch for thickness, all baked into a flaky pie crust. The result? A dessert that’s sweet, slightly smoky, and irresistibly creamy.

Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, potlucks, or just because you deserve something special, this **Butterscotch Pie** is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make Dolly’s version at home—from ingredient lists and step-by-step instructions to serving tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ingredients:

To make **Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie**, gather the following ingredients:

• • For the Filling:
    • ½ cup unsalted butter
    • 1 cup packed brown sugar
    • 3 large egg yolks
    • ¼ cup cornstarch
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt
    • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for extra richness)

• • For the Crust:
    • 1 (9-inch) unbaked deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

• Optional Topping:
  • Whipped cream
  • Additional brown sugar or cinnamon sprinkle
  • Fresh berries or sliced banana

Instructions:

Follow these easy steps to create your very own **Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie** at home:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until golden and fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting without burning.

Step 3: Cook the Brown Sugar

Add the brown sugar to the melted butter and stir continuously over medium-low heat for 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly. This helps develop the deep butterscotch flavor.

Step 4: Whisk Cornstarch and Milk

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, milk, and egg yolks until fully combined and smooth. This creates a thickening base for the custard.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Gradually pour the hot butter-sugar mixture into the egg-milk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.

Pour everything back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil—about 5–7 minutes.

Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt.

Step 6: Add Optional Cream

For a richer texture, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half at this stage.

Step 7: Pour Into Crust

Pour the hot butterscotch mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Bake Until Set

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the center is set and the top has a light golden hue.

Step 9: Cool and Chill

Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating. Chill for at least 2–3 hours before serving to ensure a firm, silky texture.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy every spoonful of this Southern treasure!

Serving and Storage Tips:

This creamy butterscotch pie is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. Here are some helpful tips for storing and serving leftovers:

• Serving Suggestions: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
• Storage: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: While freezing is not recommended due to the custard texture, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Avoid Moisture: Keep the pie covered to prevent condensation from forming on the surface during storage.
• Make Ahead: This pie sets beautifully when made ahead of time—ideal for holidays, potlucks, or weekend brunches.

Variations:

Want to customize your **Butterscotch Pie**? Try these tasty twists:

• Caramel Drizzle: Swirl a bit of caramel sauce over the top before chilling for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling before baking for added texture.
• Chocolate Twist: Add 2 tbsp of cocoa powder to the filling for a butterscotch-chocolate hybrid.
• Coconut Flakes: Stir in ¼ cup of sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Mini Pies: Make individual servings by dividing the filling among mini pie tins and adjusting the bake time accordingly.

Tips:

Want your **Butterscotch Pie** to come out perfectly every time? Follow these expert tips:

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Stir constantly while cooking the filling to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
• Use Fresh Eggs: Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly and reduce the risk of scrambling when added to hot mixtures.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the pie chill ensures the custard firms up properly for clean slices.
• Use a Deep Dish Crust: A deep-dish pie crust allows room for the generous filling and prevents overflow.
• Golden Crust Tip: Brush the pie crust edges with a little egg wash or milk before baking for a beautiful golden finish.
• Test for Doneness: The pie should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center when done—it will firm up as it cools.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the pie to sit after baking helps it set and improves sliceability.

Conclusion:

**Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie** is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Southern charm, cozy kitchens, and the kind of sweetness that makes life feel just a little better.

With its silky custard, warm butterscotch notes, and comforting richness, this pie is perfect for any gathering or solo indulgence. Whether you’re new to pie-making or a seasoned baker, this recipe offers a foolproof way to bring a classic Southern treat to your table.

So go ahead—grab your mixing bowls, channel a little Dolly magic, and treat yourself to a slice of heaven. Your taste buds—and everyone lucky enough to try it—will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

You can, but brown sugar gives the pie its signature butterscotch depth. White sugar will produce a lighter, less complex flavor.

What if my filling separates or curdles?

This usually happens if the heat is too high or the mixture isn’t stirred constantly. If it curdles slightly, blend briefly with an immersion blender to smooth it out.

How long does this pie last in the fridge?

Stored properly, the pie lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Always keep it covered to maintain freshness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this pie benefits from being made a day ahead so the flavors have time to meld together.

Is there a vegan version?

Yes! Use vegan butter, substitute egg yolks with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg yolk), and use non-dairy milk and a vegan crust.

Why did my pie crack on top?

This can happen if the pie was overcooked or cooled too quickly. To avoid this, let it cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.

Can I add meringue like in a butterscotch meringue pie?

Of course! A toasted meringue topping adds a beautiful finish and balances the richness of the custard.

How many calories per slice?

Each slice contains approximately 300–350 calories, depending on portion size and whether you add whipped cream.